The Chilean will sign a two-year deal, with an option for a further 12 months, and it is hoped that Vieira will then be ready.

A City insider said: “Patrick is highly respected, both inside the club and in football. The plan is to give him the experience he will need to move into management.

“Patrick has learned all about the culture of the club over the past two years. Putting him in charge of the EDS is the next step in a career path that has the ­ultimate aim of seeing him in charge of the first team.”

Brian Kidd will take charge of the team for the Blues' final game of the season against Norwich.

Kidd, Mancini’s assistant, has been assured he has a future. The 63-year-old is seen as a steadying influence and will continue to work with the first team.